Program Specialist - Head Lifeguard

Featherrivercamp; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 35,308 - 39,858; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free housing

Meals included

Laundry services

Camp store discounts

Professional leadership training

Job summary

A summer camp in Oakland is looking for a Program Specialist - Head Lifeguard for Summer 2026. This position involves ensuring waterfront safety, leading the lifeguard team, and overseeing lifeguard operations. Candidates should have at least 2 years of lifeguard experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to communicate effectively. Staff will receive free housing and meals, and work in a supportive, community-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• At least 2 years of lifeguard experience.
• Lifeguard certified or ability to become certified.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Organized and safety-minded in emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Guard the swim area and watch for safety concerns.
• Oversee lifeguard operations at the waterfront.
• Run skills checks and lead training for lifeguards.
• Track equipment and water conditions.
• Communicate safety standards and coach staff.

Skills

Lifeguard experience

Leadership

Communication

Emergency response

Teamwork

Job description

Spend Your Summer Making an Impact

Oakland Feather River Camp isn’t only a summer job - we are a community that cares, collaborates, and welcomes everyone to access the magic of nature. Summer at OFRC is fast-paced, joyful, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. If you want work that’s meaningful, outdoors, and full of real connection, you’re in the right place!

What You’ll Get at OFRC

This is a real job with real responsibility - and real support.

• Free housing, meals, laundry, utilities and camp store discounts.

• Highly competitive, transparent pay.

• Five-day work week with true time off - a rarity in the summer camp world.

• Professional leadership training.

• A team culture built on respect, communication, and accountability.

• A diverse, inclusive community where different identities, backgrounds, and experiences are valued.

• A chance to create unforgettable experiences in nature for families.

We work hard here. We take care of each other. And we make space for joy, rest, and real connection.

Program Specialist - Head Lifeguard - Summer 2026

Oakland Feather River Camp | Quincy, CA — $776-$876 per week | Seasonal | On-site | Free Housing and Meals

About the Role

As our Program Specialist - Head Lifeguard, you ensure the waterfront runs safely and smoothly and oversee the lifeguard team. You coach, train, check skills, manage safety policies, and help with overall Program Department needs when not on the water. This role keeps our waterfront safe, fun, and organized for campers and staff all summer.

You will spend your summer leading the lifeguard team, running trainings, checking gear, watching water conditions, and supporting other program areas to help camp operate well.

Full Job Description: Program Specialist - Head Lifeguard - 2026 Job Description

What You Will Do

• Guard the swim area and watch for safety concerns.

• Oversee lifeguard operations at the waterfront.

• Run skills checks and lead in-service training for lifeguards and observers.

• Track equipment and water conditions, and keep supplies organized.

• Communicate safety standards and support waterfront staff coaching.

• Help campers with waterfront info and questions.

• Lead camp activities when the swimming hole is closed.

Your work helps make the waterfront a safe and fun part of camp for every camper and staff member.

Who We Are Looking For

• 18 or older.

• At least 2 years of lifeguard experience.

• Lifeguard certified or ability to get certified.

• Strong leadership and clear communication skills.

• Organized, safety-mindful, and calm in emergency situations.

• Comfortable enforcing rules in a kind, clear way.

• Works well with a team and enjoys helping others.

• Someone dependable who shows up on time and works hard.

We treat staff like adults. We expect people to show up fully, work hard, communicate clearly, and support one another.

The Right Fit

If you take charge of safety, enjoy leading a team, and want to help campers have a great waterfront experience - this role could be perfect for you!

Our Culture & Hiring Philosophy

At OFRC, we work hard, support each other, and build a community where everyone belongs. We value people who show up with heart, effort, curiosity, and a willingness to learn - no matter their background or experience level. We welcome candidates from traditional and nontraditional paths, and we believe diversity makes our team stronger. You don’t need to meet every single qualification to be a strong candidate here; if this role feels right for you, we encourage you to apply and tell us what you’d bring to our community.